Health Library

Caring for Your PD Catheter and Exit Site

Your health care provider will teach you how to care for your catheter and exit site. Good care is important to prevent infection. If an infection occurs, the catheter may have to be removed and a new one put in at a later date.

During healing

Your skin will heal in a week or two. During this time, follow your health care provider's instructions. don't get your catheter or exit site wet until your health care provider says you can.

After healing

Always wash your hands before touching your catheter.

Keep your catheter clean and covered.

Anchor or secure the catheter as instructed. Don't let clothesor things you carry rub or pull at it.

Always do exchanges in a clean place.

Never use a cloudy or leaking bag of dialysate.

Wear a mask during performing exchanges.

Don't swim in lakes or streams, rivers, or public pools. Avoid soaking in baths, hot tubs, or jacuzzies. The ocean or chlorinated private pools are OK.

Important numbers

Write the names and numbers of your healthcare providers below. You need to know how to get in touch with them, even after hours and on weekends and holidays.